FREE LEARN TO FISH PROGRAM

Learning all about fish

The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC (FFSBC) has officially launched the 2011 freshwater fishing season. The FFSBC will be introducing groups of novice anglers to the joys of sport fishing at several lakes in BC. The free courses are available to residents.

Participants in the Learn to Fish program are given a two-hour course in basic fish biology, fishing techniques, and fishing etiquette. The course is offered at a number of locations on Vancouver Island and across the Lower Mainland. Registration is encouraged and participation is free of charge. The FFSBC does, however, accept donations.

“The Learn to Fish Program has become one of the most popular programs we offer,” said FFSBC President Don Peterson. “Since 2006 the FFSBC and our partners at the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation have introduced more than 40,000 youngsters and 20,000 adults from across the province to the sport of fishing and the interest just keeps growing.”The non-profit FFSBC has introduced a number of innovative new programs aimed at increase angler participation in the

Learning about fish can be really fun!

province. In addition to its core mandate of lake stocking, the FFSBC offers the Fishing Buddies Program, the unique Fishing in the City Program and supports the construction of fishing docks and piers and creates accessible fishing opportunities throughout Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland.

The FFSBC releases more than eight million fish into more than 1,000 lakes across the province every year in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment. For example, the FFSBC releases 14,000 catchable trout annually into Elk Lake. The popular fishing location supports 19,000 anglers-days of fishing effort each year.

What an awesome program!

“Our enthusiastic instructors will be teaching aspiring anglers how to fish all summer long,” said FFSBC Outreach Coordinator Mike Gass. “We are encouraging any would-be anglers to check their community event listing or visit our website at www.gofishbc.com for times, dates and course availability.”